27.07.2023 – Flipper to flipper

We kick-started the day with a pod of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) today, that marvelled our guests aboard the traditional boat and curiously approached our snorkelling participants in the water. Spotted dolphins are warm-water lovers that are notorious for their curiosity and this has made them an ideal species for the study of dolphin vocalisations and behaviour. Interactions with people in the water are also extensively researched when it comes to this species, allowing avid dolphin lovers to admire these remarkable creatures and gain some insight into their unique lives. Todays group was busy socialising when we arrived before closing in like a gang checking newcomers on their turf. It was simply fantastic!

We had the pleasure of meeting some more warm-water loving cetaceans later this afternoon. A large group of at least 25 Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) were frolicking in the waters off Ribeira Brava and both our boats enjoyed a marvellous sighting with these smart socialites. While relatively little is known about these dolphins, their social structure does seem to involve tight bonds between the animals. This is clearly visible during encounters, where the animals usually swim side by side, flipper to flipper, and this maintenance of body contact with dolphins is always a sign of close bonds. Tight companionship or even lifelong friendships had already been confirmed with Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) decades ago, a species our Stenella had also encountered during the afternoon tours.

By Paula Thake

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Rough-toothed dolphins

Stenella

09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins

14:00 Bottlenose dolphins, Rough-toothed dolphins

17:00 Bottlenose dolphins, Rough-toothed dolphins